OnTheTrail… Defensive Line

We’re back again with an update on Miami’s 2026 recruiting efforts.

At this time, the Canes have 22 verbal commitments in the 2026, ranking the class at #12 in the nation and #1 in the ACC.

Still, Miami has major needs at defensive line, defensive back, wide receiver. The staff is also looking to bolster the depth at running back and linebacker.

Today, we are breaking down the remaining targets at DEFENSIVE LINE.

At this time, nine defensive line prospects are reportedly still in serious conversation with Miami. Many are already committed to other schools. That hasn’t stopped Mario Cristobal and his elite recruiting staff from from keeping the fires going in households across the country.

DEFENSIVE LINE:

DT James Johnson (Miami, FL - committed to Texas)

At the top of Miami’s DT board is four-star James Johnson. Recent reports indicated Miami is still very much in the race for this local blue chip tackle.

DT Alister Vallejo (Liberty Hill, TX - committed to Michigan)

Reports indicate Miami is working hard to flip this four-star defensive tackle.

DT Vodney Cleveland (Birmingham, AL - committed to Texas )

Here’s a name from the past. Miami was hard after Cleveland earlier in the cycle before he committed to the Horns. However, recent reports tell us he’s still talking to Miami.

DE Nolan Wilson (Picayune, MS -committed to Alabama)

Recent reports indicate Wilson is still in contact with the Canes and is taking in Miami’s game on Saturday at the ROCK. Anything can happen.

DL Kaleb Morris (Semmes, AL - committed to Mississippi State)

Miami has long and quietly recruited this defensive end prospect. Where there’s still smoke, there may be a spark.

RB/DL Lekhy Thompkins (Bradenton, FL - committed to Louisville)

Thompkins is rated and ranked as a running back but sources tell us the Canes are recruiting him as a defensive lineman or linebacker. Either way, Lekhy is a power bar for depth or a developmental defensive end.

DT Isaiah Broughton (Houston, TX - committed to UNLV)

A recent Miami offer, Broughton brings the size to be a developmental prospect on the defensive interior line.

DL JD Hill (Mission Viejo, CA - committed to Northern Arizona)

Miami just offered this week. The hottest DL prospect on the west coast right now. Multi-sport athlete (football, basketball, track). In 2024, 90 tackles, 16.5 sacks, 1 INT, and 2 FF. Watch this one!

BOTTOM LINE:

Miami is still in the hunt for quality prospects on the defensive line this fall. Look for the Canes to land one or two of the above. A good season could impact the results on the recruiting trail.

GO CANES!